Skift Take
Today’s podcast looks at the chances of a new deal for Hyatt, United’s latest reactions to the low-cost carrier model, and destinations’ methods for calculating visitor numbers.
Good morning from Skift. Itâs Friday, July 19, and hereâs what you need to know about the business of travel today.Â
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Episode Notes
Hyatt is close to a deal to buy Standard International, operator of the upscale Standard Hotels, reports Senior Hospitality Editor Sean OâNeill.
Negotiations between Hyatt and Standard International âare in advanced stages,â according to Bloomberg News. A source at Hyatt said the talks were ongoing and hadnât been finalized, noting that Hyatt has walked away from deals at the last minute when there are issues.
Next, United Airlines Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella has blasted its low-cost rivals, arguing theyâve âlargely run their course,â writes Airlines Reporter Meghna Maharishi.
Nocella said during Unitedâs second-quarter earnings call that the growth line of low-cost carriers is highly unprofitable. He added he doesnât see any new opportunities available in the sector. Maharishi notes a surplus of domestic seats â much of which has been spurred by ultra-low-cost carriers â have dragged down Unitedâs third-quarter outlook.
Finally, Skift Meetings Executive Editor Andrea Doyle and Global Tourism Reporter Dawit Habtemariam examine how destinations estimate the number of visitors they attract.
It’s an important number: Politicians look at visitor counts when determining how much money to allocate to tourism promotion. But comparing data from different cities is difficult. A tourism executive from Las Vegas said thereâs no one single method for estimating visitor numbers. One tourism board consultant said theyâve had to modify their definition of a visitor to satisfy a client.